Twelve-spotted Skimmer – Libellula Pulchella
Dark spots on wings (and on wing tips) help to identify this species. Adults develop white spots between the black ones.
Habitat: shallow ponds, slow streams, and marshes – prefers open areas with lots of sunlight.
Active & Flying: June to late August
Distribution: All 48 states plus Canada

photo credit: Lisa Redfern

Western Pondhawk – Erythemis Collocata
Female is green (mature males are blue)
Habitat: Ponds & lakes
Active & Flying: May – August
Distribution: North AmericaPondhawks are named for their flying behavior.
Flying back and forth over open areas, they ‘hawk’ their prey.

photo credit: Lisa Redfern

Widow Skimmer – Libellula Luctuosa
Mature Male: Large brown areas on all four wings – abdomens become whitish
Habitat: Lakes, streams, ponds and away from water
Active & Flying: Mostly Summer but can be seen Spring through Fall
Distribution: United States, Canada & Mexico

photo credit: Lisa Redfern

Widow Skimmer – Libellula Luctuosa
Young Male: Large brown areas on all four wings – abdomens become whitish
Habitat: Lakes, streams, ponds and away from water
Active & Flying: Mostly Summer but can be seen Spring through Fall
Distribution: United States, Canada & Mexico